Insider Pages Reviews for Mama Mia Trattoria

5 Stars: Best Service EVER! (by curiousg74)

curiousg74 — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 02:00:00 GMT

Our waitress was one of the best I have ever had in Portland. I think her name was Stephanie. She was energetic, fun, had perfect recommendations and made our dining experience memorable and fun! The food was incredible, very flavorful and great proportions!

1 Stars: Rude workers (by 125022)

125022 — Sun, 31 May 2009 02:00:00 GMT

We went there recently for my mom's birthday. This one waitress who was not serving us walked by our table continually with the worst expression on her face and glared at us several times. Our waiter commented: Did you enjoy your appetizers? My mom replied: "Oh yes, the bread was wonderful". The waiter then said: "No, I meant your drinks".

If they don't want to serve alcohol, then don't serve it. That goes for many restaurants in Portland: What is WITH this city and drinking? So many people here get so hot and bothered/and or offended when people order drinks. We also noticed that while we were eating, several workers were standing at the bar looking right at us and talking - probably gossiping. It reminded all of us of a high school cafeteria and why you never choose to eat inside of one.

Needless to say, we will not be back.

5 Stars: A new found favorite (by bcoop)

bcoop — Tue, 05 May 2009 02:00:00 GMT

Nice old bar seating and excellent food! Try one of their homemade vodka drinks! Bartenders always nice to visit with. Cant beat the prices.. lasagna and calamari are the best.

1 Stars: worst meal and service I've had in years (by Mimi22)

Mimi22 — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 02:00:00 GMT

I have never written a review but due to the bad experience we had a Mama Mia I felt compelled to write one. I ordered the eggplant parmagiana. It was breaded and fried and burned then covered with sauce. It was inedible. My daughter ordered the child's ravioli. For $5 she received one ravioli about 2 inches in diameter. When the waiter breezed by and asked "how was our dinner"? I responded "terrible". He just turned and left. I couldn't believe it. We didn't see him again until he bought the check. We were with another mother and daughter and on our way to see Wicked so I didn't make a fuss but cannot see how they are still in business, especially in this economic climate.

1 Stars: wish i had something nice to say (by maks43)

maks43 — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 02:00:00 GMT

i know if you don't have something nice to say, you shouldn't say anything at all, but i can't help myself with this one. the food is okay, not great, but i have had worse. the real problem with this place lies in the people. i have witnessed the owner berate her staff in the past, which i think is really unprofessional. but i got a little inside scoop from a guy i know who used to work there that confirmed that type of behavior as common practice. the staff are terrified of the owner, otherwise known as "the tyrant." i heard she is in anger management or something too because she is so crazy and will fly off the handle for no reason. personally, i don't think people who are nasty and mean like that deserve my support, so i won't be back.

2 Stars: Too Many Issues (by noname500)

noname500 — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 02:00:00 GMT

While I thought the food was okay, and the prices reasonable, we had a host of other problems that would stop me from eating there. The biggies? First, they don't honor reservations at all! We were seated long after our reservation time, and there was a lobby full of other people who weren't seated promptly. Why bother taking reservations, if you're not getting people to tables on time? The other big problem...they charged us TWICE. Upon reviewing our credit card statement, they charged us our actual bill, plus someone else's bill! It's been a hassle getting this fixed, and I'd never trust them with my credit card again. Ridiculous.

1 Stars: WAITER STOLE HIS TIP MONEY FROM ME! (by alovelytune)

alovelytune — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 01:00:00 GMT

Our server was a chubby blond haired gay guy and he was the most ruddiest waiter I've ever had. Look out for him if you do go here, and try to avoid him at all costs! Like most Italian restaurants after you order your main entree they ask if you'd like a salad or soup which is usually included with your meal. And if it is not they will ask you. "Would you like to add soup or salad for an extra $3.95?" This waiter offered us a salad, which was $6.95 and a soup for $3.95. Without telling me that they were additional. I did not know he would be charging me the additional $11 bucks for just soup and salad that I didn't really even want. Since I thought that this was a sneaky move on my waiters end, I did not leave him a tip because he didn't deserve one. As we were walking out he then says you forgot to pay $5.00 on your bill. I know paid the EXACT amount on my bill and I figured he was just mad because I didn't leave him a tip. I then gave him his the $5.00 that I supposedly "forgot" and walked out of the restaurant. As I was walking out he then yelled to me and my date. DON'T YOU EVER COME BACK! What a PSYCHOTIC waiter! The service here is horrible and the way this waiter acted was immature and ridiculous, and I hope the management wises up and fires this guy. The food is alright but if you'd like soup or salad for free, then stick to olive garden.

5 Stars: Great Place for Happy Hour & Dinner (by KevCos8)

KevCos8 — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 01:00:00 GMT

I took some out of town clients here and was pleasantly surprised to find the $3 Happy Hour menu. The bar had quite a few business types huddled around the gigantic flat screen TV watching Monday Night Football. The plates were perfect size and for $3 we ordered the entire happy hour menu as appetizers and THEN sat down for dinner. They had the usual suspects on tap from Widmer but also a seasonal from Sierra Nevada which was pretty tasty. Calamari was crisp as was the fried zucchini. Steve the bartender was pretty knowledgeable and talking sports with my clients--giving me a much needed break! The service was quick and attentive (not to mention attractive;) and the dining room was pretty amazing.

Must haves: veal marsala, garlic bread, and cioppino plus the entire happy hour menu was a great deal.

I frequent Mother's Bistro next door (same chef/owner) so I expected everything to be on point at Mama Mia's, and it was. Great place, great value.

4 Stars: Mama Mia Trattoria (by Dean C.)

Dean C. — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 11:03:00 GMT

What an outstanding restaurant. I know this sounds cliche, but just like my Grandmother used to make. The pasta's are delicious and the help outstanding. Great appetizers and nice wine selection. Would recommend this for any occasion. If it were also opened at lunch it would be perfect.

1 Stars: Don't buy it! (by BevandC)

BevandC — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 02:00:00 GMT

"She makes the mozzarella cheese fresh everyday, and it truly melts in your mouth"That's what they tell you and it may be, true but it has little or no tast. Something smells here and I don't think it's just the food! Let's start with the "Sunday Gravy", To Italian's the Sunday gravy is not really how the red gravy is made, it's the love that Mom or your Grandmother put into it. Yes it is a wonderful feast of tastes, and NO it can not be made in any restaurant. I have no problem with a restaurant marketing themselves in a way to get people in the door, but this place just has gone to far. Bye the way don't try it for yourself because it's just encouraging bad behavior, and the eating of tastless food.

1 Stars: The Food is Great...If You're on a Low Sodium Diet! (by frikativ54)

frikativ54 — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 02:00:00 GMT

Having read the good reviews on this site, I went to Mama Mia's this past August. I have bought one container of salt in the past four years, and I have to say, I loaded my soup with salt. This is from someone who normally eats bland food. I wanted manicotti, but the waiter convinced me to try the ravioli. What a mistake. It was tasteless, and it didn't even fill me up. I ended up ordering manicotti to go, and while slightly better, it just wasn't worth the calories. So - if you like your food tasting like dishwater, then I would come to Mama Mia's. If, however, you would like Italian Food that actually tastes good, try Alessandro's or Olive Garden.

5 Stars: Nice atmosphere! (by Julie G.)

Julie G. — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 20:18:00 GMT

My husband and I went here for Valentine's Day and had one of the best meals ever. The staff is great and very accommodating. My husband had the lasagna and I had the risotto. The servings are large and very tasty.

1 Stars: Home made Italian food if you're German! (by Snappyjo)

Snappyjo — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 02:00:00 GMT

Home made Italian food, maybe if you're German, Irish, or Polish. Now nothing against any of those nationality's, I'm sure they make great food but their not Italian. This is lazy Italian food at it's very worst. I grew up in Brooklyn NY with an Italian Grandma and an Italian mom. My nanny (nanny is what Italians call their grandma) and mom would die (not kidding) before they served this kind of lazy junk food and call it home made. An example of this; the waitress brings out my order of eggplant parmigian and it consisted of two big thick pieces of eggplant covered with low quality mozzarella. I looked at my wife and she looked at me, and we both laughed. I picked up my fork , yes fork that's what you cut your eggplant with when its made at home by your mom or nana. After a few seconds I gave up and picked up my knife since no Fork could ever cut these two hockey pucks. It's Lazy Italian food because its much easier to have two layers then five or six, even though that's how home made eggplant is made in a real Italian home.

My mom would never serve this food to her children, nor would any loving Italian mom I have ever met!

5 Stars: Super good.....Trust me (by opie12t5)

opie12t5 — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 02:00:00 GMT

Wow, the person who wrote that negitive one star review below sounds like quite the a@s h@le. I can maybe understand if the place was just ok writing a review that bad since he is from "italy." However, Mama Mia's is really, really, good and I am very picky when it comes to italian food and have dined at many, many, restaurants. The owner/chef is italian and knows what she is doing. She makes the mozz cheese fresh everyday and it truly melts in your mouth so I have no idea where that came from. I go here when I want hearty italain food and two other places in Portland when I want more authentic italian food. If you're in the mood for hearty flavorful food you should give this place a try. I rarely branch out and I did about a year ago and now it is one of my favorite places in Portland. Plus the owner/chef comes around and talks to ya and really seems to take pride in everything. If you look and most of the reviews, then you will see that 80% of them are excellent. But you must try it for yourself to find out. As far as the one reviewer below that claimed to be "italian" --- I have a great idea! Move back to Italy! Portland is getting too populated anyway.

5 Stars: Sunday Gravy and garlic bread were incredible... (by hcharlie65)

hcharlie65 — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 02:00:00 GMT

Outstanding evening. We were seated immediately, and service was fantastic. From appetiser to desert and espresso, one of the best Italian meals I've had, and I'm an Italian food junkie. Best meal since dining at the old Mama Leone's in NYC, which was many years ago. My only criticism (and this is petty) is that I'd like to see cloth napkins on the table instead of paper. For a restaurant of this calibre, there should be cloth napkins.

1 Stars: Bland, American piles of noodles (by smc1998)

smc1998 — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 02:00:00 GMT

This place was truly a disappointment; you can make better pasta at home. The quantities are large, which may please some, but the flavor is bland, the noodles are overcooked, there is nothing truly Italian about the place. Don't waste your money.

5 Stars: Honestly the best italian food... ever (by Jorge M.)

Jorge M. — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 15:09:00 GMT

We intended to go to Mothers Bistro on a monday... but found it closed! (UGH!!) However, a sign told us to head around the corner and we were SOOOO glad that we did. The room is elegant and spacious... although slightly noisy at times. However, our conversation about the amazing food and service soon drowned out any of the chatter around us. We have been back twice, and it's also fantastic. We had the Sunday Gravy which I always have enough for lunch the next day. I HIGHLY recommend the Zepolis for dessert. It's on our list of favorites restaurants in Portland... but perhaps some of the best italian food I've ever had!!!!

5 Stars: Fav italian in P-town (by Nina H.)

Nina H. — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 17:41:00 GMT

This is my favorite Italian eatery in Portland! I always, always start off with a bowl of their steaming hot minestrone. It's especially good on a cold day.

I love the pesto here, they add tomatoes, which is great, not a lot of places do that.

I did have ONE bad experience here, but i think that it was because our waitress was new. She basically forgot to put our order in :)

3 Stars: Mediocre (by seto2424)

seto2424 — Thu, 29 May 2008 02:00:00 GMT

My husband and I tried Mamma Mia after hearing good reviews. The service was pretty good, but both of our dishes were just average. Clam linquine wasn't quite on for flavor. Cannoli's for dessert were really good. Overall it wasn't as impressive as I expected it to be. There are only a few really good spots in PDX for Italian.

5 Stars: That's some good gravy.. (by foodloverpdx)

foodloverpdx — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 02:00:00 GMT

Ok.. so we walked in and immediately were WOWed by the beautiful chandielers and red & gold theme through out. We were greeted by an attentive host who took us to a candle lit table by the window. After perusing thru the extensive menu we finally narrowed down our choices. Our server helped us make the right ones. I had the Veal Piccatta, my friend had the Sunday Gravy.. wow! It was delicious. Oh wait, i forgot to mention the Caprese salad, it was home made mozzarella with a killer balsamic reduction. We also share the Fried Ravioli. So back to the Gravy and Picatta.. the sauce was so buttery and the veal melted in my mouth. I recommend getting the sauteed spinach too.. yummo! The wine list was very reasonably priced with a great selection. We had the Tantrum, it was a blend of Pinot Noir and something else. Went great with the food, (oh our server also recommened this one.) Then onto dessert.. all I can say is HOLY CANNOLI. If you have ever been to NY, then this will take you back. All in all, I had a great time. The service was attentive, informative and fun. The food was just the same. I hear they own Mother's Bistro also, so I will be sure to try that next.

5 Stars: New York in Portland- Finally! (by isabella212)

isabella212 — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 02:00:00 GMT

Wow! What a great place! I moved to Portland from New York some years back and have been searching for this kind of food since I got here. Had their home made mozzarella and it melted in my mouth. And their chicken parmesan was the best I ever had. I can see the issue with tables -- it's a big room, so there's not really a quiet corner, but our server was great even on a busy Friday night. I would definitely go back...maybe even tomorrow!

1 Stars: Served us previously eated food! (by echoluna)

echoluna — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 02:00:00 GMT

Our first trip here was nice. Tonight was horrible. Our food was delivered to the table right next to us (arm length away). The woman returned the wrong order while the gentleman began eating his. The waiter then came out and got his plate- stating it was the wrong order too. We watched him walk to the kitchen and within seconds return with the same two plates! Mine (that went to the woman) was cold, my partners was the previously eaten dish! When we confronted the waiter he said it was a fresh dish. We pointed out that it had been stirred up and parm cheese sprinkled on one side of it. We asked to speak to the manager, she was embarrassed and stated she would get us fresh food and take care of the meal. She even added "and please feel free to order dessert as well." Fresh food came, although my side dish never did come. After our plates were cleared the server asked about dessert. My partner ordered a canoli to go and I asked to see a dessert menu. The server returned with the check! He stated he took off our appetizers (soup and salad) and have a good night! The manager rushed over to grab the check. Then she returned it with a balance of $19 for our drinks. My dessert order was never taken. We inquired why she charged us for the 2 drinks we ordered at the start of the meal and her response was "didn't you order drinks?" .... yes, well we also ordered a fresh meal not a plate of food that our neighboring table had just taken bites out of! Are you kidding! We asked why she had said that she was taking care of our check. Our total check was only $50 (if you take our the side dish that I never got) and she wanted us to pay the $19 for drinks. Finally she grabbed the check stating "fine, I will just take care of it". The two neighboring tables, including the one we shared our plate with, were equally appalled. I can't remember the last time we left less then a 20% tip, this was the first time in all my years to leave no tip. Be careful...

4 Stars: Excellent food! (by zalli)

zalli — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 02:00:00 GMT

Food was Delish!! Service typical for Portland = lazy. I made reservations for my best friends birthday, and requested a nice table. On a Tuesday it was busy, but not full we were sat @ a small table in the middle of the restaurant (not my idea of a nice table). I'll try it 1 more time to see if it is worth frequenting.

5 Stars: Italian Heaven (by multnomahvillage)

multnomahvillage — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 01:00:00 GMT

Where to begin. I am obsessed with this restaurant, and consistently amazed by the quality of the food. The garlic bread, the heavenly chicken piccata which melts in your mouth, and the spicy penne.....The seasonal antipasto platters with fresh selections, instead of old cured meat and the same old tired cheeses that you see at so many Italian Restaurants. My husband LOVES the meatballs. If we have left overs, my husband always orders an extra meatball to take home with the leftovers. The service is not overly attentive, but we have always been well taken care of, and I have never had even one complaint about the food or the service. My only problem is that I always eat too much to save room for dessert! Ask for a recommendation for a bottle of wine to go with your meal, I am impressed with the prices of the wine offered. The prices on the food are more than reasonable, and the portions are huge! Eat here once, and you will eat here again and again.

4 Stars: Great food, nice atmosphere, so-so service. (by lavachickie)

lavachickie — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 01:00:00 GMT

My first dinner at Mama Mia's was enjoyed last night with four friends. A Sunday night found the place busy but not full, which made me wonder why our service was so darn slow. It took almost 15 minutes for our waiter to come by and take our drink order! Likewise I wondered if the appetizers would EVER arrive, but then the entrees came at a good pace as did the table clearing and dessert.

Our waiter was nice; it seemed odd that the women who brought the drinks not once but twice tried to set them down at the end of the table where no one was sitting, instead of actually delivering them where they belonged. Table clearing was prompt and unobtrusive, so overall, it only made a dent in my impression.

The food... perhaps some of the best moderate cost home style Italian I've had since moving to Oregon. All items we ordered or sample from our dining partners tasted fresh, and were hearty when they should be and light when they should be. Very flavorful, but not overbearing. My husband and I tried the garlic bread and fried ravioli for starters, and then the manicotti and linguini alla carbonara. We were stuffed but couldn't say no to desserts, cheesecake and their ganache covered ice cream which was excellent in both preparation and presentation.

We'll be back. Ah, to find satisfying Italian.

5 Stars: Best Italian Food EVER!!! (by dotvision)

dotvision — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 01:00:00 GMT

I've been here 5 times already, and I can't get enough. EVERY sauce on the menu is completely different... unlike so many other restaurants with their "uni-sauce" for everything. Oh but not here... it's all so fresh and amazing. Then the actual owner/chef came out and dropped by our table to chat. WHO KNEW THE MOZARELLA WAS HANDMADE THERE EVERYDAY. Try the Sunday Gravy. Try the Putanesca. Try the LASAGNA... TRY IT ALL. Oh, and do NOT forget about the Zepoli for dessert. It's fantastic!!!

5 Stars: Great Italian style food (by sherrykoff)

sherrykoff — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 01:00:00 GMT

I, along with my husband, have lived in Phila, PA all of our lives. We do travel quite a bit ,as well. In Philly, we have lots and lots of Italian resturants. Through a recommendation, we went to Mama MIa's. only to find out that it is the same owner as Mother's Resturant (from the morning meal) We had such a wonderful experience from the morning meal we were relaxed and ready for an evening meal. As I stated we have lot of Italians and italian resturants in our part of the states. The food here compared the best to the better resturants in Philly and N.Y.The manicotti noodles were tender along with the ricotti cheese -fluffy and tasteful. The red sauce is a winner. We like the dining room bedcause we felt cozy. The servers that gave us the water to the person who removed the emptied plates were curteous and warm. We went from very poor in one day to the next day in the city to great. Thank you Mother's and Mama Mia for a Portland, experience.

5 Stars: Incredible Food (by crdarwin)

crdarwin — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 02:00:00 GMT

Mama Mia is a gustatory delight, there is nothing on the menu (and I mean nothing) that is not delicious. My favorite is the fettucini alfredo. Yes I know alfredo is Plebian- the mac n' cheese of northern Italy but what can I say? They use Parmesan Reggiano, it is incredible. It is hard for me to order anything else when I go, but everything on the menu is great. This is also not a small portion place, so if you bring someone expecting a greater plate size, this will not disappoint and for a very good value. Not surprisingly it is tied to Mother's Bistro next door, also very good but unlike Mama Mia's not in my Portland Top 10 (very hard to get in this list, we have remarkable food here). Additionally, the atmosphere is lovely, without pretension; although I would be remiss in not stating that I would feel a little uncomfortable in this restaurant dressed in anything less than professional casual.

Enjoy.

5 Stars: Great event at Mama Mia Trattoria (by customersinput)

customersinput — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 02:00:00 GMT

I wanted to write to let you know how wonderful everything turned out at our event. We received rave reviews - and it's all thanks to you and your staff.

Thank you for everything, you made our event amazing!

5 Stars: Thought I had the best Italian in Portland until Mama Mia's and now I can say I'vehad the best (by jaja999)

jaja999 — Sat, 13 Oct 2007 02:00:00 GMT

Went there last week and expected it to be average. How wrong I was. The best flavors I have ever tasted. The ambience is so cool. Nice and dark. The garlic in the chx picatta was amazing along with the calamari. Will be back soon. Very soon! :)

5 Stars: the best (by polywog)

polywog — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 02:00:00 GMT

The sauce at this place is the best I have ever tasted. Reminds me of home in Chicago. The meatballs are ok but everything else here is deleicious. I love the bread and oil to start. Must try this place.

5 Stars: Great atmosphere (by kissymywham)

kissymywham — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 02:00:00 GMT

From the minute we walked in til the minute we left, we enjoyed the atmosphere, food, service and ambience. The prices were wonderful, for two people, we had drinks, appetizer, main course and dessert and it was cheap! We had two of the veal scallopini dishes and they were to die for. Would totally recommend this.

1 Stars: WORST SERVICE EVER (by shastaco)

shastaco — Sun, 15 Jul 2007 02:00:00 GMT

Waiting area was very small. Once seated the waiter keep walking by and ignoring us. The waiter finally came to the table and was extremely rude and condescending. I will never return and would not recommend this resturant.

4 Stars: superb! (by saltomato)

saltomato — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 02:00:00 GMT

really great experience at this restaurant. i dined there last night, and it wasn't crowded which was exactly what i was looking for. the service was impeccable. the waiter seemed knowledgeable and was able to offer up some delicious recommendations, and the busser was quite pleasant as well. she was very kind and was able to answer some of our questions. the food was fantastic. A+ italian. the only problem i had with this restaurant was that, although romantic, it tended to be on the dark side making it a smidge difficult to read the menu. i, however, look forward to many more evenings here.

5 Stars: Happy Hour Satisfied! (by eatsntreats)

eatsntreats — Thu, 28 Jun 2007 02:00:00 GMT

Yesterday I went for happy hour at Mama Mia and had a pleasant experience. The bartender made several nice drinks for me and a friend and we ordered from the happy hour menu. Everything on the menu was 3 dollars each. A good variety and came out fresh and hot! After starting with a Caesars salad we ordered ITALIAN! The lasagna was excellent and my friend ordered the manicotti, again very good. I did notice the bar area was small but quaint. I also noticed that the restaurant area was totally full and this was a Wednesday!! Something special at Mama Mia and I think it?s the food and drinks. Since we were seated at the bar, I am not sure of the table service. I must say however our food orders came up quick, hot and fresh and again, the bartender knows his stuff!
Four thumbs up.
6/2/08 - Went for dinner and again had good experience. I purchased a gift certificate at an auction that this restaurant donated to support a wonderful cause so I used that gift certificate with my son last night. Had the steak item on the menu and my son have the Veal Scallopini. Both excellent! Service excellent! Overall a good experience!

2 Stars: pretty good, most of the time (by btsylynn)

btsylynn — Sun, 06 May 2007 02:00:00 GMT

We've been here several times. Most of the time I'm satisfied. Most of the time, service is acceptable. Sometimes, the food is lacking, and sometimes, we get an unattentive waiter. I love their cocktails. And it's an ok place to take a noisy kid, because on busy nights, the noise drowns them out. We'll probably go again, but not a favorite.

2 Stars: Good food, Soprano Tactics (by muffo)

muffo — Sun, 29 Apr 2007 02:00:00 GMT

The food and service were good at my son's recent birthday party. However, our server Jennifer recommended two $50 bottles of wine and then delivered not only the wrong vintages, but different labels -- substituting similar-sounding but cheaper bottles off of the by-the-glass house list for the older, more expensive wines she had recommended and we had ordered.

When our check arrived at the end of the night, our party of 8 was automatically charged the 18% gratuity as expected. However, our server had neatly folded the bill to hide the subtotal and automatic gratuity. We left feeling duped, with a bad taste in our mouths. Sadly, it was our last visit to Mama Mia Trattoria.

5 Stars: best veal scallopine alla francese (by ev66)

ev66 — Sat, 27 Jan 2007 01:00:00 GMT

I've ordered veal dishes in other restaurants around the northwest and nothing compares to Mama mias the veal is like butter when you bite into it, and the sauce is to die for. I've never been disappointed with any of the dishes everything delicious !!! The last time we dined there we had Howard as are server, and he is great! He's very knowledgeable of the wine list,super friendly, and witty. the rest of the staff was great also,the water and wine glasses where never empty!!! I dine out alot, and I think this place is the best value in town.

5 Stars: Wheat free pasta at last! (by angelehua)

angelehua — Tue, 02 Jan 2007 01:00:00 GMT

Being allergic to wheat makes it rare to have Italian. I love Mama Mias because we can go out for my husbands favorite food(Italian) and I can actually eat something good for me. They have yummy desserts, we love the staff and the wine menu.

5 Stars: What a place! Mother (owner) is incredible! Food was Great! (by tef)

tef — Sat, 18 Nov 2006 01:00:00 GMT

We went for dinner and my 8year old was not feeling well and Mother (the Owner) came over and asked is everything was great? My oldest daughter has a stommach ache adn she offered to go to here other resturant and bring back some chicken soup, which she did. Home amny times does that happen?

A not miss.

Enjoy TEF

4 Stars: Best homemade italian in Portland. (by fran3)

fran3 — Sat, 18 Nov 2006 01:00:00 GMT

I work downtown so I've eaten at Mother's often and wanted to try Mama Mia's. Unfortunately they don't open until 5PM and I leave downtown at 4:30. We finally were able to have dinner at the restaurant in late August 2006. I ordered Grandma Mary's Sunday Gravy entree and my husband had their Veal Piccata. I grew up in Chicago in an Italian and Polish neighborhood. Grandma Mary's gravy was excellent and just like I remember having at my friends homes back home. My husband loved the Veal Piccata and both dishes were substantial. My only complaint is that the prices were quite high. We'd be regulars if it were a bit more affordable. Sorry for those with unsatisfactory service but I do recommend that you try them. I was thrilled with the homegrown feel and taste. Enjoy.

4 Stars: Real Italian food in Downtown Portland (by bleddrewsoe)

bleddrewsoe — Thu, 14 Sep 2006 02:00:00 GMT

I recently ate here on a business trip and was not sure what to expect given some of the mixed reviews here but gave it a shot given the overall high rating. I was looking for a traditional Italian Restaurant and I got what I wanted...not that easy a task considering Italian food is not a mainstay in Portland. Our server was very good...overall a satisfying experience.

PS-was also walking distance from my hotel which was convenient.

5 Stars: Excellent Southern Italian (by keywester)

keywester — Tue, 18 Jul 2006 02:00:00 GMT

If you're looking for refined Northern Italian cooking, this isn't the place. If you want really good old fashioned Italian cooking you won't do better than this place. Great fried zuchini and the chicken parm was wonderful with a perfect tomato sauce. And the house red is fine. Don't be put off by the rather tacky decor.

3 Stars: Try it at least once. (by dholm17)

dholm17 — Sun, 16 Jul 2006 02:00:00 GMT

My first visit to Mama Mia's made me think that I found my new favorite restaurant. The atmosphere is one of my favorites in Portland and Grandma's Gravy was the best Italian dish I'd had for a long long time. Unfortunately, my second visit made me not want to go back. Both times I got Grandma's Gravy. What I've found is that the meat items are GREAT but the sauce and everything else is below average. The atmosphere is the best thing there. I love the darkness of it (I could read the menu just fine), the furniture and decorations, and all the deep red.
My last visit was VERY irritating and is the sole reason I will not be going back. There wasn't more than 5 tables seated the whole time but for some reason we couldn't get any service. And when she did come around she was pretty snotty and short. Another table near us sat for over 15 minutes (yah, I actually did time it!) before they were ever even waited on! They were getting visibly irritated. The worst part was, all the staff was sitting over by the bar talking. They weren't even hiding in the back!! That is the most frustrating thing to me. If the meal or atmosphere is subpar, the one thing that can save the experience and bring me back is great service. Mama Mia's doesn't have it.
Oh, and don't waste your time with the lasagna...its watery and has no meat in it. (the staff actually told us that it was their meat version.)
Part of me recommends trying it once...if nothing else, for the beautiful atmosphere and maybe you'll get lucky with the other things. All I know is that I won't be back.

5 Stars: Excellent! (by hoopdude)

hoopdude — Wed, 22 Mar 2006 01:00:00 GMT

Had been to the chef's other restaurant, Mother's Bistro, and wanted to try this one out while on a weekend trip from Seattle. Thought a little dark, even to see the menu, the service was outstanding, and the food was very, very good. Felt valued as a customer, and our server gave excellent recommendations. Liked the atmospher other than the lighting. Can see having a tough choice between this one and Mother's on future trips to Portland - both are hard to beat. While it can also be a nice romantic place to dine, it also seemed very family-friendly.

1 Stars: Just another Italian restaurant (by johnyboy)

johnyboy — Thu, 09 Mar 2006 01:00:00 GMT

Not a very good choice with so many good restaurants downtown and in the pearl just really a blane dinning experience justy another stop on the way too many medocre Italian restaurants

4 Stars: Italian Food (by ntediner12)

ntediner12 — Thu, 09 Mar 2006 01:00:00 GMT

I recently dined at Mama Mia's with my family and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. We had 12 people all together with some family from out of town. The place is a little dark, but it definately had a good vibe to it. The menu's not incredibly special, but everything we did get was hearty and good. The wine list is pretty good, and they definately stick to the whole Italian schtick and only had a couple of NW wines, which is pretty rare for these parts. Our server definately took the time to make us feel comfortable and kept us entertained throughout. All the staff seemed to be having a good time too and two came over to joke with us when our server was over at our table. The prices were pretty much average and we all felt like we got more than we expected. We'll definately go back.

5 Stars: Loved it (by dre1974)

dre1974 — Tue, 07 Mar 2006 01:00:00 GMT

My wife and I read about Mama Mia's in the Portland Monthly and she watched the place being put together on "Opening Soon. We decided to give it a shot. Made a reservation, good idea to do this, was pretty busy. Loved the food, Sunday Gravy and Linguine w/ Clam sauce. Took half the Sunday Gravy home the portion was so big. The garlic bread was awesome! Good drinks. Food was reasonably priced. Would have loved to try the dessert menu but I was stuffed. It was a little loud but the dining area is open, what do you expect? If you are looking for a quiet romantic place to take a date maybe this isn't the place for you. We will be back for sure! Truly sorry others had such a bad experience!

1 Stars: Over-rated! (by steph2)

steph2 — Wed, 01 Feb 2006 01:00:00 GMT

We walked out after overhearing the owner berate her staff loud enough to be heard over the noisy dining room. Highly unprofessional!

1 Stars: Mediocre Italian (by drummerboy7120)

drummerboy7120 — Mon, 14 Nov 2005 01:00:00 GMT

I was not impressed with the quality of food at Mama Mia's. It was very mediocre for the prices charged.

I had the prawns fra diablo and my business associate had the cheese lasagna.

The sauce for my prawns had the taste of flour or some thickener. It also lacked any depth or spice for a diablo sauce.

My associate had a the multi-cheese lasagna which actually turned out to be a blob of cheese rather than layers of cheese between lasagna noodles. It wasn't creamy like most white lasagna. This was not anything similar to any Northern Italian style lasagna I have tasted or seen.

Fortunate for me I was able to expense to my company, so there wasn't any out of pocket cost for me personally.

Save your money and go somewhere else.
Service was average.

5 Stars: Family Celebrations (by deidrabenke)

deidrabenke — Mon, 03 Oct 2005 02:00:00 GMT

We recently celebrated my father-in-law's 60th birthday at Mama Mia's and it was the perfect atmosphere for a family celebration. The food was fantastic, the corkage fee is reasonable and the service was flawless. Additionally, it is a very nice place that is still child-friendly.

1 Stars: Who's the Boss? (by aanchos)

aanchos — Thu, 22 Sep 2005 02:00:00 GMT

Wow, even Tony Danza goes here. The perfect washed up element to add to washed up service and food.

5 Stars: WOW! WOW! Fantastic Food & Service (by motheroftwokids)

motheroftwokids — Wed, 14 Sep 2005 02:00:00 GMT

I just had one of the best experiences, EVER. My service was attentive and helpful. The food was mouth-watering. I ate the chicken picatta with the olive oil side pasta and my taste buds were tantalized. Thank goodness I saved room for dessert because the tiramisu was out-of-this-world. I will definitely return and tell all my friends what a fabulous experience I just had. For all you reading this- You must go try Mama Mia's for yourself.

4 Stars: Better than expected. (by harddriv)

harddriv — Sun, 04 Sep 2005 02:00:00 GMT

I had low to moderate expectations for this place, but was pleasantly surprised! Traditional Italian-American fare is what you'll find on the menu. Lots of standard pasta & red-sauce selections. I was pleased that the fried zucchini was actually prepared fresh. We tried the penne ala vodka with chicken and the prawns francese and they were both fresh, tasty, and were adequately-sized portions. The wine list was limited and more pricey than necessary. The decor was pleasant and the service, although friendly, was a little slow. Mama Mia is open late. I'm sure I'll be back.

5 Stars: Absolutley AMAZING! (by jagaya)

jagaya — Sun, 28 Aug 2005 02:00:00 GMT

I am so suprised at some of the people below.
The food & service was incredible. I had truly had the best experience. I ate the Chicken Piccata with the side of the olive oil pasta. (my mouth waters every time I think about it) I also drank some really great cocktails... oh and lets not forget that pretty much everyone that works there is attractive!!
I will defintely go back and I am going to bring all my friends.
Don't listen to the negative reviews, go try for yourself and you will see that they are wrong!

1 Stars: Momma Mia's is Nota soa gooda (by danielle131)

danielle131 — Mon, 15 Aug 2005 02:00:00 GMT

Went to Momma Mia's for lunch. I have some friends who thought it was great at one point in time. They have even changed their tune. Well, i have had Ragu Sauce over Fred Meyer noodles before but they were at least half the cost not. I will say that Momma Mia's atmostphere was much better than my kitchen. I was sooo dissappointed in the food. Bland, runny, definatly not italien and i find it hard to believe it's homemade. I might stop in for a drink, now and again but I wouldn't order the food. You can do better at home!

1 Stars: The worst service (by suzanne_111)

suzanne_111 — Thu, 11 Aug 2005 02:00:00 GMT

food and service are terrible. This place is over rated, save your money and your time. This isn't aunthentic Italian food, it very much like Macaroni Grill/Olive Garden.

5 Stars: They are sooo yummy (by mscaseylynn21)

mscaseylynn21 — Sun, 07 Aug 2005 02:00:00 GMT

I love these guys and it is the best italian food downtown!! Trust me :) It is sooo good
I highly reccommend it to anyone and their tirimisu is great. A+++

1 Stars: Italian food run a muck (by sset)

sset — Mon, 04 Jul 2005 02:00:00 GMT

This place is very OK nothing special. The food is not a very good value the ambience just does not realy click its somthing out of a disney land resort concept.The women who runs it is sickening sweet in dinning room but you can hear hear screaming in the kitchen kind of a Rip Taylor Mr Hyde very obnoxious having said that the wait staff is pleasant I hope they can pull it together.The Sunday gravy tasted Old and the sauce tasted like it came right from the canThe mussels were gritty and if this is what they mean by Italian soul food they might want to look up the meaning or start looking for a new concept I wont be back

2 Stars: Noisy and disappointing (by keithb1)

keithb1 — Thu, 30 Jun 2005 02:00:00 GMT

The hype around the restaurant exceeds reality. Good quality food with sup par service, atmosphere and value. There are a lot of better alternatives

5 Stars: Fantastico! (by jsunmoore)

jsunmoore — Sun, 19 Jun 2005 02:00:00 GMT

After hearing nothing but rave reviews I had to dine at Mama Mia's to see if it lived up to the hype. It was everything and more that I hoped for. Even with a packed house the service was exceptional. The food came quikly, and was fresh and full of authentic Italian flavor.

1 Stars: Bad without doubt (by momn8tor)

momn8tor — Thu, 16 Jun 2005 02:00:00 GMT

We have tried this restaurant on three separate occassions, all consistently bad, and left feeling more stressed than satiated. Service is poor, restaurant noisy, food overpriced, too salty, poorly prepared. Service on takeout was just as bad as dining in, wait was three times longer than what we were told over phone. After waiting to pick up the amount of time we were told over phone before picking up we had to wait another 1/2 hour in noisy restaurant before food was ready to take. Gratuity of 16% was added to bill for take out although no mention was made over phone of this policy. Will never go back.

5 Stars: SOLD! (by massajl)

massajl — Mon, 14 Feb 2005 01:00:00 GMT

This is hands-down the greatest Italian comfort food in Portland. I should know, I had an Italian grandpa who labored over meat sauce for days at a time. Yes, the garlic bread is buttery ... just like my grandma's garlic bread. I loved every moment of my experience at Mama Mia, including the wonderful server named Andy. You won't be disappointed by anything. And this moderate price is so worth it. Sunday "Gravy" is a standout.

5 Stars: Everything was wonderful!! (by Wancho)

Wancho — Sun, 13 Feb 2005 01:00:00 GMT

As parents of a 4 yr old boy, it was always difficult to find a restaurant. However, we had wonderful dinner at Mama Mia Trattoria because our server knew how to deal with kids. My son was very happy from the beggining to the end. Also, the price was very nice. We had Sunday gravy pasta, prawn, veal, meat ball pasta, cannoli, pannacotta, a cup of coffee and a glass of wine and the total was under $100 ( including 20% of tip). I liked Sunday Gravy pasta and prawn very much. My husband loved pannacotta. Thank you Mama Mia Trattoria! We will go back again!

5 Stars: Gur-8 (by yazfan)

yazfan — Wed, 02 Feb 2005 01:00:00 GMT

Another fine Portland Italian offering. They tease you with wonderful free garlic bread, but charge you if you want extra. The Lasagna of the day was excellent! The Veal Scallopini was above average, but the Linguini & clams a bit sub par. Nevertheless, we look forward to going back. To some, it's very noisy, but I like that sort of atmosphere.

3 Stars: Don't bother to make a reservation (by tkochh)

tkochh — Mon, 24 Jan 2005 01:00:00 GMT

We walked out without ever having been seated. After taking the trouble to make a reservation in advance and arriving several minutes early, we were offered the worst seat in the restaurant; right next to the front door. Upon inquiring about several other empty tables, we were informed that they were saving them for other parties. Excuse me, but wouldn't someone like us...with a reservation...be a "other party?" Anyway, the wait staff were unwilling to accomodate us and only offered us the option of waiting 30 minutes for a different table. They didn't even take the effort to offer we wait at their rather attractive bar or that they'd make a special effort to accomodate us as soon as possible. Instead of traingin $7 in drinks for a $80 meal, they istead caught only our tail-lights as we exited the restaurant for a much more pleasurable experiance at their competition.

3 Stars: Can you hear me now? (by saveyourmoney1)

saveyourmoney1 — Sun, 23 Jan 2005 01:00:00 GMT

The portions are good and the food was prepared well. However the place is very loud. The room is very open with a lot of large tables it was very hard to hear myself think, let alone hear what my wife was saying. They need to put up some walls or dividers to help reduce the sound. If you order a caraffe of wine vs. a bottle you get juice glasses to drink from instead of wine glasses...What's that about?

The menu wasn't true Italian, there were a few good items but if you want authenitic Italian there are better choices around town. Doubt I'd go back.

5 Stars: Superb (by barlea)

barlea — Tue, 11 Jan 2005 01:00:00 GMT

Our walking into this restaurant on a cold and windy night was one of the lucky times in our lives. The decor was warm and inviting with plum colored walls, white linens and spakling crystal. We were met at the door with charm and grace, shown our table and a glass of wine served quickly and smoothly. The food was wonderful. The whole experience so memorable we booked the private room for a family birthday party that will be held in March.

5 Stars: The BEST! (by beasleytwin)

beasleytwin — Sat, 01 Jan 2005 01:00:00 GMT

OMG! This was the best Italian food I have ever had. I have definitely found a place to go for good in Portland. The mother's Sunday gravy is very good. The chicken parm is to die for.

5 Stars: Mangia (by alex4005)

alex4005 — Mon, 13 Dec 2004 01:00:00 GMT

What a truly exceptional offering of Classic Italian fare in a truly classy and elegant dining room. The personal attention from the owner is heartwarming because you know, in an instant, that she cares if you are enjoying your meal.

2 Stars: Salty Food ~ Slow Service (by chick312)

chick312 — Sat, 04 Dec 2004 01:00:00 GMT

I've been to Mama Mia's twice for lunch. Both times I was NOT impressed. A friend and I shared the Fettucine Alfredo and it was so salty we sent it back. We were told there was no salt in it - it was the cheese. Either way, it was disgusting. The food is plain and a real dissapointment after eating at Mother's. I expected the quality of Mother's and did not get it. You can easily sit at your table for 15 minutes before being served on a busy afternoon. If you have a choice, pass Mama Mia's and go to Mother's.

5 Stars: As good as my mom's!! (by italianmeatball)

italianmeatball — Fri, 12 Nov 2004 01:00:00 GMT

My mom will kill me for saying this, but this is the first Italian sauce I've had at a restaurant that is as good as hers! I had the sunday gravey and I was stuffed afterwards. My cousin had prawns but they were so good she wouldn't share.

5 Stars: Delicious Dinner! (by sueplantain)

sueplantain — Fri, 05 Nov 2004 01:00:00 GMT

Our dinner experience here was top rate. The food was delicious, portions were big, I thought it was a little spendy until I saw the size of the meal--then I thought it was a bargain (I took home as much as I ate!) It is also very romantic.

5 Stars: Olive Garden times 100 (by mjordanj2309)

mjordanj2309 — Thu, 21 Oct 2004 02:00:00 GMT

My whole family was born in Italy and since I was part of the first generation born in America I compare the food my mother and Nonna make to Italain restaurants. While no sauce can replace what I can get at home, this is the first place that didn't taste like Ragu (or what I assume Ragu would taste like since I have never had it). The prices were reasonable, the service was very good, and the setting was kind of romantic for my wife and I. Note that the restaurant is small so reservations are a good idea.

5 Stars: Loved it! (by pickle999)

pickle999 — Tue, 19 Oct 2004 02:00:00 GMT

We had my birthday party here in the small private dining room. I felt like a princess! There were flowers in the room, excellent service, the food was exceptional. Thank you for making this a wonderful birthday!!!!

5 Stars: Man Oh Manicotti! (by mable222)

mable222 — Thu, 14 Oct 2004 02:00:00 GMT

My manicotti melted in my mouth. The chef herself wandered by our table to make sure everything was fine and told me every part of the manicotti was home made...and i believe it. I'm getting hungry just thinking about it! I think there were 7 or 8 different vegetarian dishes and some low carb as well. My waistline appreciated that! Extensive wine list as well. Friendly service. The bathroom was georgous! Best Italian in the city! Best vegetarian downtown!

5 Stars: Delicious!!!! (by orangecrush)

orangecrush — Wed, 13 Oct 2004 02:00:00 GMT

I've eaten at Mothers a few times and had to give Mama Mia a chance. I can say that the chances of me eating Italian food anywhere else in Portland is nearly zero. The wine list is awesome. The food was perfection (the garlic bread a little buttery). My eggplant parm was the very best I have ever had. They make their own mozzarella cheese! It is also about the most beautiful restaurant in town. Service was friendly but obviously new staff.

5 Stars: Great Italian Food (by thurstonhowell)

thurstonhowell — Wed, 13 Oct 2004 02:00:00 GMT

Mama Mia's has the best Italian food in the city. The atmosphere is old world romantic, the service prompt and the food is amazing. Be sure to order the zucchini appetizer and try the fresh mozzarella with tomatoes. yum yum!

5 Stars: Mama Mia!! (by marieb439)

marieb439 — Mon, 04 Oct 2004 02:00:00 GMT

Mama mia's is some of the best italian in portland. Lisa has outdone herself again. The service is amazing and the sunday gravy is better than grandma's. Lisa (head chef and owner) checked on us twice durring our meal. Also, the interrior is so beautiful. The food and atmosphere is so comforting. They have a large room for groups that was recently featured in Fine Living you have to check it out. I am hooked.

5 Stars: She's Done It Again (by reverendmother)

reverendmother — Sun, 26 Sep 2004 02:00:00 GMT

Lisa Schroeder, mother of Mother's Bistro has a new hit with Mamma Mia. Excellent food quality, attentive but not overbearing service, good wine by the glass choices, and a melt in your mouth tartufo. We had the chicken parmagiana and veal marsala. The chicken piccata at the next table looked great too. It's hard to find good Italian restos in Portland, and this one is a winner.

5 Stars: THE best, period! (by hobbit)

hobbit — Sat, 25 Sep 2004 02:00:00 GMT

The lovely people who run Mother's Bistro have done it again! The old Elephant & Castle now houses this gem. This is REAL homestyle italian. The house wines are inexpensive ($10 a caraffe) and served in wine glasses, and really good to boot (there is an exceptional wine list for those who want more). The sausage is stellar, and the pasta cooked perfectly. The red sauce is tasty, perfectly spiced, so you can taste the fresh tomato flavor. The service is as friendly and warm as eating at Grandma's, the portions are huge. No, seriously HUGE! The deserts are mazing and there is even a large grappa selection. Nice beers on tap too. Try the veal and every pasta you can. Fun for lunch or dinner, couples or crowds!